How to Get the Most Out of Selling Your Car

Selling your car is a great way to make quick money. While some people sell their cars to a car buyer, others choose to sell their car themselves to get more money. As a private seller, you get to negotiate a price instead of a car buyer giving you a potentially low offer. However, selling your car doesn’t come without its own set of challenges. This is how you can get the most out of selling your car.

Find Out Your Car’s Value

Your car’s current worth is easy to figure out with Kelley Blue Book. This is the best way to gauge what you can expect out of selling your car if it’s in optimal condition. You can also take your car to a local dealer but they may try to persuade you to take the lowest price possible if you sell it to them. You also have to factor in any wear and tear, as well as any repairs. If your car is in good shape, you should be able to fetch a hefty price. A mechanic will inspect your car for any damage and assess what you can expect based on your vehicle’s condition.

Clean and Repair Your Car

If your candidates see a dirty car, they may turn right back around. No one wants to buy a car that isn’t taken care of, and you can expect a much higher price if you clean it up. Before you post pictures of your car, get the car detailed inside and out. Making it look like new doesn’t have to break the bank, and it can make all the difference in attaining a high quality buyer.

Next you need to make any necessary repairs. Replace faulty windshield wipers, reinstall broken visors, and replace basic details that will make the car worthy of your price. Go to a mechanic who can give a full inspection of your car. Major repairs like a faulty engine need to be repaired before you sell. Selling a car with a bad transmission is usually only successful through a car buying service, so if you’re unwilling to invest in costly repairs, this may be your best route.

Negotiate a Price

Now you can pick your price. Consider all of the above and come up with a reasonable figure. Keep in mind that if you want to sell your car quickly you may have to settle for a lower price. If the buyer knows you need it off your hands now, they’re more likely to offer a lower price. If you have the time, wait until you find a buyer who is willing to pay what you ask. If you’re unable to sell within a couple months you may want to lower your price. When you present your car to candidates, always inform them of any repairs and your car’s history. Learn the lingo to negotiate your price. There are two types of listings: a firm listing and an OBO listing. A Firm listing is a nonnegotiable price, while an OBO listing means you’re willing to compromise.

Market Your Car

Your ad needs to be flawless. Take high-quality photos of both the interior and exterior of your car. Capture it in good lighting, and be sure they get a perspective of all sides of the interior. After including all of the details about the car and what price you expect, you can now post it to a social media site or Craigslist. If nobody’s buying or it’s not worth the hassle to you, consider selling your car to a reputable car buyer. They will likely give you a lower price, but you can sell your car fast and get paid sooner.

You may think you have an old clunker, but you may be surprised at the amount of money you can earn if you take care of your car.